Medical Watch Digest for May 8
Appendix may play role in immune system
A tiny organ plays a larger role in maintaining health than previously thought.
The appendix is often dismissed as an unnecessary organ. But Brigham and Women’s Hospital researchers found it plays a critical role in the immune system.
Studying data from more than 121,000 patients ages 30-55, they found those who had their appendix removed, had altered gut bacteria and a 47-percent reduced risk for bacteria positive colon cancer compared to those who still had their appendix.
THC Shows Up in Breast Milk
The psychoactive component in pot lingers in breast milk. When breastfeeding mothers use cannabis, THC shows up in tests of breast milk.
Washington State University scientists found, unlike alcohol which disappears in time, researchers could not find a time when THC started to decline.
While they don’t know the impact on infants or their development, they say they do know when breastfeeding mothers use marijuana, the infants consume it through the milk.
Being Sick Lessens Ability to Empathize
When people are sick — they cannot focus on other people’s needs.
Illness infects empathy according to a study in the Journal Medical Psychology.
Feeling sick leaves people with little ability to feel empathy for others compared to when they are healthy.
The research reveals the link between infection and inflammation and the ability to empathize with the pain of others.
Study authors say it’s the body’s way of conserving energy in periods of illness.
And it’s further proof physical illness impacts both physical health and interpersonal relationships.
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